We’ve heard so much about being in the presence of God. Or finding the presence. Or inviting presence. And after someone has passed into eternity we hear about feeling their presence. This week Father has been teaching me about Hunny’s presence.

There’ve been moments when I felt his presence so distinctly that it was unmistakable. And instead of looking directly at his chair, I got the impression that I should look away. Looking at the chair was distracting from it. But when I looked away, his presence felt more profound, actually bigger.

I’ve learned things about him that never registered in my consciousness when he was here physically. Like, ..Hunny exudes a distinct kind of masculine strength that is uniquely his and commands attention. Along with an unexpected humor that permeates everything he does and says. Behind it all, there’s a comforting quiet wisdom.

When I feel it strongest is when I’m least expecting it. And yet, I’ve learned that I can close my eyes and pursue his presence, just as I would Father’s.

Most amazing though is how Hunny’s presence is entangled with Father’s now in my perception. I’ve stepped into and basked in Father’s presence and suddenly Hunny is peeking through.

Understanding how Hunny is now inside Father doesn’t seem so hard to conceive now. Where one is, there is also the other.

This is a wonderful way to pull away from the sadness of mourning, I’ve discovered. I simply lift my head, tilt it upward, and find that Presence. By the way, have you ever noticed that when we are sad and depressed our head hangs down? But if we tilt it upward, it automatically begins changing the atmosphere.

When I’m bathing in Father’s presence, it’s so easy to find Hunny there. And it soothes away grief. It lifts me up and puts my feet back on solid ground. My mind clears and my heart fills with joy again.

Death has no victory in this place and its where I want to live every minute.

I’m working on that every day. Staying in the joy. And sometimes it requires that I not listen to “our song”. Not yet. Not while tears can easily be too plentiful. I’m choosing to not be mournful. Not often anyway.

There’s too much beauty in this life to ignore it very long. And these days, it seems to be putting on a show for me. The trees have been turning and the weather is perfect. So, beauty dances in the sun right before me. I can’t miss this gift of love.

Just as I’ve been learning for many years, it’s my choice to be sad and depressed, or to look up and find my redemption. It’s waiting right here for me to choose to change my focus. He’s eager to bathe me in love and joy.

Look up today, my friend.

Faith